Ronaldo leaving Manchester United for Real Madrid

Manchester United have bowed to Real Madrid’s persistent courting of Cristiano Ronaldo by accepting a world record £80 million bid for the player after he once again 'expressed his desire to leave.'

After more than a season of tit-for-tat between United and Real, Sir Alex Ferguson and co. have at last been forced to concede that their prized asset is keen on a move to the Spanish capital.

The Portugal winger has flitted almost by the day between committing his future to Old Trafford and glancing admiringly at life at El Santiago Bernabeu.

Real have always been equally open in their desire to sign the player but it looks to be the return of president Florentino Perez that has accelerated the deal just three days after Los Merengues broke their own world record transfer fee by signing Kaka from Milan for £56 million.

“Manchester United have received a world-record, unconditional offer of £80million for Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid,” read a statement on United’s official website.

“At Cristiano's request - who has again expressed his desire to leave - and after discussion with the player's representatives, United have agreed to give Real Madrid permission to talk to the player.

“Matters are expected to be concluded by 30 June. The club will not comment until further notice.”

Madrid subsequently confirmed the agreement in a brief statement which would seem to suggest the move will be wrapped up sooner rather than later.

"Real Madrid can confirm that an offer to Manchester United to acquire the rights of Cristiano Ronaldo has been accepted," the statement read.

"The club hope to reach an agreement with the player in the next few days."